AirAsia X orders more A330s

AirAsia X, the long haul low fare affiliate of the Malaysia-based AirAsia Group, has placed a firm order with Airbus for three A330-200s. Scheduled for delivery from 2014, the aircraft will be operated on the carrier's expanding network, offering low fare service to destinations in Europe, Asia and the Pacific. The latest contract brings AirAsia X's total number of A330s ordered to 28.

AirAsia X has ordered the 238 tonne increased take-off weight version of the A330-200, which is capable of flying non-stop from Kuala Lumpur to Europe. The airline will configure the aircraft in a two class layout with a total of 288 seats.

"This order reflects our positive outlook for the long haul low cost market out of Asia," said Azran Osman Rani, Chief Executive Officer, AirAsia X. “With its low fuel burn, spacious cabin and extended range, the A330 is the perfect aircraft for us to build our business, enabling more people to fly further at lower cost than ever before."

"This latest order from AirAsia X underscores the position of the A330 as the most efficient aircraft in its class flying today," said John Leahy, Chief Operating Officer Customers, Airbus. "The A330's low operating costs, range capability and proven reliability make it the clear winner for airlines flying in the growing long haul budget market."

AirAsia is the largest low cost airline group in the Asia-Pacific region and operates an all-Airbus fleet. Altogether, the group has now ordered over 200 aircraft from Airbus, including 175 single aisle A320s, 28 A330s and 10 A350 XWBs.

The twin engine A330 is one of the most widely used widebody aircraft in service today. To date, Airbus has won more than 1,100 orders for the various versions of the aircraft. Some 750 A330s have already been delivered and the aircraft is currently flying with 90 operators worldwide in 50 countries.